Comet, Montana – Silent on the Eastern Slope
Nestled on the eastern flank of the Continental Divide, between the present-day towns of Basin and Boulder, Montana, lies Comet, Montana, a relic of the state’s vibrant mining past. This spectral settlement stands as one of Montana’s most remarkably preserved ghost towns, a testament to a bygone era when dreams of fortune drew hopefuls to the rugged landscapes of the American West. Unlike many historical sites meticulously restored and curated, Comet, Montana, remains untouched, a raw and authentic glimpse into the life and times of a mining community. Though situated on private land, the site is currently accessible to the public, inviting exploration of its silent streets and weathered structures.
The story of Comet, Montana, begins with the allure of mineral wealth. The area, eventually designated the High Ore Mining District, first attracted prospectors in 1869 when John W. Russell initiated his search for riches. After dedicating five years to working his claim, Russell relinquished his stake in 1874, selling it to the Alta-Montana Company. This marked a turning point, as the new owners injected capital into the mining operations, signifying a commitment to extracting the earth’s hidden treasures. The company erected a 40-ton-per-day concentrator, a vital piece of machinery in the milling process. This concentrator was designed to separate valuable ore from the surrounding dirt and rock, a necessary step in preparing the raw materials for further refinement.
Two years later, in 1876, the nascent settlement of Comet was formally surveyed and platted, its grid-like layout reflecting the optimism and ambition of its founders. As word of the mining activity spread, more and more people migrated to the area, seeking employment and a share of the prosperity. In 1877, a post office was established in Comet, providing a crucial link to the outside world and solidifying the town’s status as a burgeoning community. However, despite these promising developments, growth was gradual, and the town’s potential remained largely untapped for several years.
The year 1879 saw a significant investment by the Alta-Montana Company, which poured over $500,000 into developing the Comet and the nearby Alta Mine. These funds were used to expand mining operations, purchase new equipment, and improve infrastructure. However, despite these efforts, the company struggled to turn a profit, hampered by exorbitant transportation costs that ate into their earnings. The remote location of the mine and the lack of adequate transportation infrastructure made it difficult to efficiently transport the ore to processing facilities and markets.
Undeterred by these challenges, Samuel T. Hauser, a director and major stockholder of the Alta-Montana Company, remained resolute in his belief in the potential of the Comet Mine. In 1883, he formed the Helena Mining and Reduction Company, acquiring the assets of the struggling Alta-Montana Company and initiating a fresh wave of investment in the Comet Mine. This marked a turning point in the town’s fortunes, setting the stage for a period of sustained growth and prosperity.
The following year, the Helena Mining and Reduction Company constructed a new smelter at Wickes, approximately six miles northeast of Comet. This smelter was one of the largest in the Montana Territory at the time, capable of processing significant quantities of ore. To facilitate the efficient transport of ore from the mine to the smelter, the company built a 100-ton concentrator and a tramway, streamlining the entire mining process. The tramway was a critical piece of infrastructure, allowing for the quick and efficient movement of concentrate over the rugged terrain separating Comet and Wickes.
However, the most significant catalyst for Comet’s growth was Hauser’s successful persuasion of the Northern Pacific Railway to construct a branch line between Helena and Wickes. This railway connection provided a vital link to the outside world, drastically reducing transportation costs and opening up new markets for the mine’s products. With improved access to transportation, Comet experienced a surge in population and economic activity, transforming it from a struggling mining camp into a thriving town.
The arrival of the railway spurred another round of expansion in mining operations, with the addition of more equipment and the hiring of more men. The 1890s represented Comet, Montana’s heyday, a period of unprecedented prosperity. The mine’s profitability soared, enabling it to weather the silver panic and economic depression of 1893, which crippled many other mining communities across the West. During this golden age, Comet boasted a population of approximately 300 residents, supported by a vibrant community infrastructure. The town featured a school with more than 20 children, numerous businesses catering to the needs of the miners and their families, a variety of homes, and over 20 saloons, reflecting the social life of the era.
However, the abundance of ore was not inexhaustible. By the turn of the century, the ore deposits began to dwindle, leading to a period of decline for the town. Over the next several years, the mine changed hands multiple times, as various companies attempted to revive its fortunes. By 1913, the once-bustling town had become a ghost, its residents having moved on in search of new opportunities.
The story of Comet, Montana, did not end there. In 1927, the Comet and Gray Eagle Mines were acquired by the Basin Montana Tunnel Company, marking a new chapter in the town’s history. The company undertook significant improvements, including the construction of a 200-ton concentrator, which was hailed as "the most modern in Montana" at the time. This advanced technology allowed for more efficient processing of the remaining ore, revitalizing mining operations and breathing new life into the town.
With the implementation of better technology, the mines experienced a resurgence, employing approximately 300 men and weathering the challenges of the Great Depression. In the 1930s, the operation became the second-largest mining venture in Montana, surpassed only by the massive operations in Butte. Mining continued until 1941, when most of the equipment was sold, the people moved away, and Comet became a ghost town once more.
Over its lifespan, the Comet mine produced an estimated $20 million worth of lead, zinc, iron, copper, silver, and gold ore, making it the richest mine in the district. The nearby Gray Eagle Mine also contributed significantly to the region’s wealth, producing over $2 million in ore. These figures stand as a testament to the rich mineral resources that fueled the growth and prosperity of Comet, Montana.
Today, Comet, Montana, stands as a poignant reminder of its vibrant past. The town sits silent, its weathered buildings slowly succumbing to the elements amidst the sagebrush and weeds. Despite the ravages of time and the impact of vandalism, more than two dozen buildings still stand, offering a tangible connection to the town’s prosperous era. These structures serve as silent witnesses to the lives and dreams of the people who once called Comet home. A single family remains in residence, maintaining a connection to the land and preserving the memory of the town’s history.
Comet is located approximately 37 miles southwest of Helena, Montana. To reach the ghost town, travel south of Helena on I-15 to Exit 160. Then, travel north on High Ore Road for about five miles. The journey to Comet offers a glimpse into the rugged beauty of the Montana landscape, setting the stage for the exploration of this remarkable ghost town.